How to get to Monteverde from Tamarindo in Costa Rica?
- Esteban Acedo
- May 28, 2024
- 8 min read
Updated: Jun 12
Planning a trip from Tamarindo to Monteverde, Costa Rica, offers a variety of travel options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you prefer the freedom of a rental car, the convenience of a shuttle, or the adventure of public transportation for this 187-kilometer 4-hour voyage, this guide will help you choose the best way to reach the cloud forests of Monteverde.
What is the best way to get to Monteverde from Tamarindo?
Pura Vida Traveling Recommendations:
On a Budget: Shared Shuttle, Public Buses
Singles, Couples, or Small Groups: Taxi or Rental Car, Shared Shuttle
Families or Large Groups: Private shuttle
To Monteverde from Tamarindo by Private Shuttle
Perfect for groups <> 4hrs <> $263
For those seeking comfort and privacy, a private shuttle is an excellent choice. Private shuttles offer door-to-door service, flexible departure times, and a direct route without unnecessary stops. The trip from Tamarindo to Monteverde in a private shuttle takes around 4-5 hours, depending on road conditions. This option is ideal for families, groups, or travelers with specific schedules or needs. While more expensive than shared shuttles, private shuttles provide a personalized and stress-free travel experience.
Writers Tips:
Private shuttles are great for groups of 4-12 people. Shuttles are priced for 1-6 passengers. Plan to pay an additional $15 per extra passenger.
Ask your driver to stop along the way. There is so much to see and your driver should know the area well.
Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles
To Monteverde from Tamarindo by Group Shuttle
Solo travelers & couples <> 4-5hrs <> $60
Shared shuttles offer a convenient and relatively affordable way to travel from Tamarindo to Monteverde. These services typically provide door-to-door transportation, picking you up from your accommodation in Tamarindo and dropping you off at your destination in Monteverde. The journey takes about 5-6 hours, including possible stops along the way for rest and refreshments. Shared shuttles need to be booked in advance, and they offer a comfortable, hassle-free option without the need to navigate the roads yourself.
Writers Tips:
Reserve in advance as these shuttles can fill up.
Kids under 10 years old are half price.
Be aware of luggage restrictions. Surfboards and extra suitcases can cost extra.
Click here for more detailed information about Group and Private shuttles
To Monteverde from Tamarindo by public bus
cost-effective <> 7-9hrs <> $16 US <> 4 bus transfers
Traveling by bus is the most economical option, though it requires more time and a bit of patience. There is no direct bus from Tamarindo to Monteverde, so you’ll need to transfer buses and you have a couple options:
Option 1 (easiest but not fastest)
Tamarindo to Liberia ($3) (2.5hrs)
The first leg of your trip is to get to Liberia from Tamarindo. For this trip you will use Transporte La Pampa, you will pay the bus driver directly, and the bus leaves from in front of the plaza in Tamarindo.
Liberia to Puntarenas ($6) (3hrs)
Next, catch a direct bus from Liberias Municipal Bus Station to Puntarenas. There are 10 buses per day to Puntarenas between 5am and 5pm.
Puntarenas to Monteverde ($4) (3hrs)
The last step is to take a direct bus from Puntarenas to Monteverde using the company Transmonteverde.
You can use their website to check bus times or buy tickets in advance.
*If you're very adventurous, you can get off the Liberia to Puntarenas bus on the highway where buses from Liberia intersect with buses to Monteverde (Parada de buses La Irma -cental line) From this location you can wave down a bus headed to Monteverde and skip the hassle of having to travel all the way into Puntarenas. This can save you both time and money.
Option 2 (fastest but with extra bus transfers)
Tamarindo to Liberia ($3) (2.5hrs)
The first leg of your trip is to get to Liberia from Tamarindo. For this trip you will use Transporte La Pampa, you will pay the bus driver directly, and the bus leaves from in front of the plaza in Tamarindo.
Liberia to Cañas ($3) (1.5hrs)
From Liberia, catch a bus to Cañas. These buses should leave Liberia every hour or two.
Cañas to Tilarán ($2) (1.5hrs)
From Cañas, take another bus to Tilarán. These buses leave every hour so you shouldn't have to wait long.
Tilarán to Monteverde ($4) (2hrs)
Finally, from Tilarán, you’ll find buses that go directly to Monteverde, taking approximately 2 hours. There are only three buses from Tilaran to Monteverde daily so i would only take this route if you plan to leave from Tamarindo early in the morning.
Writers Tips:
Most companies in Costa Rica provide services from early morning to late afternoon. Most companies won't have evening bus routes even if you see them posted on their websites.
Leave as early as possible to make sure you make all your connecting bus transfers.
While taking a bus to Monteverde is the most cost-effective, it is also the longest option. Consider taking a shared shuttle or flight for this trip to cut your travel time down significantly.
Store large suitcases and bags under the bus and keep a small bag with you for all your most valued items.
To Monteverde from Tamarindo by Airplane
The fun and fast option <> 3-4 hrs <> $175
There are no direct flights from Tamarindo to Monteverde. Local airlines operate flights from Tamarindo to San José, which take approximately one hour. From San José, you could rent a car, take a shuttle, or hire a private transfer to Monteverde, which is approximately a 3-4 hour drive. This option is not going to be any faster than just driving directly from Tamarindo to Monteverde.
Writers Tips:
Book a rental car, taxi, or shuttle for this trip.
Be aware that flying with extra luggage or heavy luggage could come with an additional cost.
Be at the airport check-in at least 1 hour before your flight or they won't allow you to fly.
To Monteverde from Tamarindo by Car or Taxi
Fast and Easy <> 4hrs <> $300
Driving from Tamarindo to Monteverde offers the most flexibility and allows you to explore at your own pace. The journey is approximately 4-5 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. You’ll head southeast from Tamarindo towards Liberia, then take Route 1 (Interamericana) before turning onto Route 145 or Route 606 towards Monteverde. The roads can be rough and winding, especially near Monteverde, so a 4x4 vehicle is recommended. Rental cars are readily available in Tamarindo, and driving offers the chance to stop at scenic spots along the way. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi for a direct, though more expensive, trip.
Writers Tips:
Use our Pura Vida Traveling exclusive link to receive up to 10% off and additional rental benefits.
Always check with your credit card company to see if international car insurance is an added cardholder benefit. This can save you some money on your rental.
Waze is the most used direction application in Costa Rica so it normally has the most up-to-date road conditions.
To Monteverde from Tamarindo by Private Vehicle
Best for extended visit <> Purchase and resell
If you are planning an extended visit to Costa Rica and want to travel the entire country in the luxury of a private vehicle, consider buying a car or van when you arrive and selling it when you leave. Buying a vehicle is both legal for tourists and pretty easy to do. You would have to pay the initial lawyer's fees to transfer ownership and then you would have to sell the vehicle in time before leaving the country but this hassle could end up being worth the hassle if you can get most of your investment back before you leave.
Do not hesitate to read our specific article on this subject: How to buy a car in Costa Rica?
Conclusion: choosing your ideal route.
Choosing the best way to get from Tamarindo to Monteverde depends on your preferences, budget, and schedule. Whether you opt for the freedom of a rental car, the convenience of a shuttle, the speed of air travel, or the affordability of bus travel, each option offers a unique way to experience the journey. By considering these five options, you can make an informed decision and enjoy a smooth trip to the beautiful cloud forests of Monteverde.
What is the best way to get to Monteverde from Tamarindo? Vote Now!
0%By Private shuttle
0%By Shared Shuttle
0%By Air Plane
0%By Public Bus
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Shuttle to Monteverde from Tamarindo?
Yes, shared shuttles can be reserved using this link:
How much is a taxi from Tamarindo to Monteverde?
A taxi for 1 to 4 passengers should cost around $300
How much does it cost to fly from Tamarindo to Monteverde?
There are no direct flights from Tamarindo to Monteverde. Most domestic airlines will make you change plans in San Jose.
Is Tamarindo closer to Liberia or San Jose?
Tamarindo is closer to Liberia. If you are flying into Costa Rica and Tamarindo is your first stop, you should definitely look to fly into Liberia airport instead of San Jose airport.
What airport should I fly into for Monteverde Costa Rica?
Fly into San Jose if your first stop in Monteverde. It's a little easier to get to Monteverde from San Jose than it is to get there from Liberia.
What airport should I fly into for Tamarindo Costa Rica?
Liberia airport is closest to Tamarindo and is best for travelers visiting Tamarindo.
How far is it from Monteverde to Tamarindo?
The distance between Monteverde and Tamarindo is approximately 187-kilometers.
Is Tamarindo or Monteverde better?
Choosing between Tamarindo and Monteverde depends on your preferences and what kind of experience you seek. Tamarindo is better for those who love sun, sand, and surf, offering beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and a range of water activities like surfing and snorkeling. It’s a vibrant coastal town perfect for relaxation and adventure by the sea. On the other hand, Monteverde is ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers who prefer cooler climates and lush, misty forests. It’s renowned for its cloud forests, biodiversity, and thrilling activities such as zip-lining, hiking, and bird watching. If you seek a beach-centric vacation, Tamarindo is your destination; if you prefer a mountainous retreat surrounded by nature, Monteverde is the place to go.
Is Monteverde close to Tamarindo?
While the distance between Monteverde and Tamarindo is not great (187-kilometers). The route involves multiple mountainous roads that make journey last a bit longer.
Why is Tamarindo so popular?
Tamarindo, Costa Rica, captivates visitors with its stunning beaches, renowned surf breaks, and abundance of outdoor adventures. From surfing and snorkeling to zip-lining and wildlife watching, Tamarindo offers endless opportunities for exploration and excitement. As the sun sets, the town comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene, while its eclectic dining options satisfy every palate. Accessible from Liberia International Airport and other major cities, Tamarindo's accessibility, natural beauty, and diverse attractions have cemented its status as a beloved destination for travelers seeking sun, surf, and adventure on Costa Rica's Pacific coast.
What is the best bus route to take from Tamarindo to Monteverde?
We recommend the following route:
Tamarindo to Libera. Liberia to Puntarenas. Puntarenas to Monteverde
Why is Monteverde so Popular?
Monteverde is popular due to its unique cloud forests, which offer a lush, misty environment teeming with biodiversity. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a major draw, attracting nature enthusiasts and scientists alike with its rich variety of flora and fauna, including orchids, bromeliads, and numerous bird species like the resplendent quetzal. Adventure seekers flock to Monteverde for activities such as zip-lining, hanging bridges, and night tours that provide a thrilling way to experience the forest. Additionally, the town's commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism, combined with its cooler, refreshing climate, makes Monteverde a beloved destination for those seeking a blend of adventure, nature, and tranquility.
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